What should be the first step before fitting a patient for contact lenses?

The first step before fitting a patient for contact lenses is conducting a comprehensive eye examination. This vital assessment allows the eye care practitioner to evaluate the overall health of the patient's eyes and identify any conditions that may affect contact lens wear, such as dry eye syndrome, corneal irregularities, or ocular diseases.

During the comprehensive examination, the practitioner can also determine the patient's visual acuity and establish an updated prescription for vision correction. This foundational information is essential, as it guides the selection of appropriate contact lenses that will meet the patient's specific visual and lifestyle needs. Without this thorough evaluation, there could be significant risks involved in fitting a patient for contact lenses prematurely, including compromising eye health or providing inadequate vision correction.

Other steps, while important in the fitting process, should follow the comprehensive examination. For instance, a fitting trial with sample lenses can only be effectively done once the practitioner knows the patient's specific needs and eye health. Similarly, discussing lens options is best informed by the results of the eye exam, as those results dictate which options are viable for the patient. An assessment of the patient's prescription history, though helpful, cannot replace the necessity of a new, comprehensive evaluation tailored to the current condition and needs of the patient’s eyes.